Top Network Security Certifications and How to Choose the Right One for You

network security certification

Network security is an organization’s first line of defense against hackers and other cyber threats. However, just like there are many different forms of cyberattack, there is a vast number of varying cybersecurity certifications to choose from.

Although having so many choices is arguably a good thing, the sheer number and variety also pose a challenge. What are the best network security certifications? Which one(s) are right for you and your organization? Are any of them universally applicable?

Today, we are going to shine the spotlight on network security certifications, including what they are, why they are necessary, how to choose the right one, network security training courses, and related employment facts. But before we get to the certifications, let’s review the fundamentals of network security. 

What is Network Security?

Many experts define network security as the practice of taking protective measures for protecting network infrastructure from trespassing, illegal access, modification, abuse, change, destruction, or the unauthorized gathering and release of data. The full process requires a combination of hardware devices, security software, and user awareness of security procedures and techniques.

The latter element can range from employees briefed on proper security practices to professionals who have taken network security training.

Why is Network Security Needed?

So many aspects of our lives have migrated to the digital world. We use the internet to conduct financial transactions, communicate with family and colleagues, make purchases, seek entertainment, and engage in research. So much of our personal information resides online, everything from birthdates to Social Security or other identification numbers, to health history, credit history, criminal records, among other things.

All that data, all those transactions, are vulnerable to hackers and cybercriminals. The more of our lives we commit to the internet, the higher the risk of compromise. Moreover, the rise of the Internet of Things (IoT) means even more reliance on wireless networks, which only increases the threat landscape. There is too much at stake in our personal and commercial lives to let network security slip. So, what kind of network security is out there?